Share review of Mr Drostan Cheetham

Mr Drostan Cheetham 2020-10-26 Person 5 5 0

Mr Cheetham has a rare skill in that he can communicate his strong technical and specialist knowledge to patients in a way that is easy to understand, process and make decisions upon. His explanations and context really helped me to deal with the situation presented and feel comfortable knowing that he was telling me everything I needed to know without being 'talked down' to. Let's face it, I was scared about suddenly finding I had bowel cancer, and his approach made it a softer landing in reality than it could have been. The leadership he displays with his multi-faceted team is truly impressive, but in an understated professional way. He clearly has high standards and this flows down through his team in terms of individual support when he wasn't physically around. The multiple touch-points that I had made me feel like the whole team was behind me and communicative, which is immensely reassuring when you have loads of questions, fears and face some potentially life-changing decisions. Following the surgery Mr Cheetham was again open and informative in his feedback on how the operation had gone and let the results demonstrate what is for me a positive outcome. I didn't feel rushed in any of the post-operation discussions at my bedside or in Outpatients either, he is genuinely engaging, open and willing to take the time that I needed. For me trust is a massive thing, and from the first time I met him to the most recent outpatient meeting I had and have a strong feeling of trust in him from his explanations, plans and outcomes. Some you might not want to hear, but his transparency and honesty did put me in a place where I felt I had all the facts to consider and act on. I can't make any constructive suggestions, as he has dealt with my case superbly, as has his team. If he can be given any greater decision making powers or try to delay his retirement that might be something to look at. Could you enlarge his team so more of the NHS can get to see how a professional, down to earth and supportive Clinical Director can make a difference to individual patients like me in what is a massive NHS machine? Heart-felt thanks from me and my family. John Moorhouse.